Hollywood movies are full of compelling plots and storylines.
However, there is always something special about watching a movie knowing that it was based on a true story. When “Wild Rose” hit the screens, it struck a chord with audiences worldwide.
The film tells the story of Rose-Lynn Harlan, a single mother of two from Glasgow, who dreams of becoming a country singer in Nashville. Played by the talented Jessie Buckley, Rose-Lynn’s story resonated with many, and left them wondering: Is “Wild Rose” based on a true story?
Is Rose-Lynn Harlan a real person?
“Wild Rose” is not a direct adaptation of any particular individual’s life. However, it does take inspiration from the real world.
Director Tom Harper and screenwriter Nicole Taylor collaborated to create a fictional story that captures the spirit and struggles of aspiring musicians, especially those trying to balance their dreams with the responsibilities of parenthood.
Although the movie is very inspiring, the producers of the film haven’t disclosed any information regarding the real artist that the movie is based on. While there are probably some female artists that have stories similar to Rose’s, the movie isn’t based on any specific real-life event or artist.
You constantly have that little voice in the back of your head reminding you that it really happened and it’s why many enthusiasts find these movies incredibly satisfying.
Our today’s focus is the recently-released movie “Wild Rose” which follows the rebellious Rose-Lynn Harlan.
The story starts with Rose being released from prison after serving a year for narcotics possession. She is 23 year-old working-class girl from Scotland who is giving her all to try and manage the chaos in her life.
At first, we realize that she is very street smart, rebellious, and a bit foul-mouthed. When she is released from prison, she goes home to her two children, Wynonna and Lyle. The two were taken care of by Rose’s mom, Marion, who we notice doesn’t really appreciate the way Rose is living her life.
Rose-Lynn has a goal and it’s to become a famous country singer. To do so, the first step would be to go to Nashville, Tennessee (Country music capital). With no money and no job, she turns to her old employers in the Grand Ole Opry country bar where she used to sing. Unfortunately, they turn her down and she gets a job as a cleaning lady for an upper-class woman thanks to her mother.
The rich woman, Susannah, overhears Rose singing one day and is fascinated by her voice. She decides to throw a fund-raising party for her to help her make money for Nashville.
Trouble soon stirs up and Rose is given a choice: become a singer or dedicate herself to her kids. With the (non)help from Eliot, her best friend and occasional lover, Rose once again faces her worst enemy: herself.
After a while, we see that Rose-Lynn decided to stay with her children. Her mom starts to realize that Rose has gotten her act together and offers her a large sum of money that should be enough for Rose to go to Nashville and chase her dream. After the initial decline, Rose accepts her mom’s offer and goes to Tennessee.
She soon starts to realize that getting gigs in Nashville isn’t as easy as it seems. However, she finds a way to get noticed by sneaking on stage at the Ryman Auditorium during a backstage tour and singing her impromptu song to an invisible audience. Little did she know, a security guard overheard her and offered to introduce her to a big-time music producer. Shockingly, Rose-Lynn declines the offer and decides that her home is in Glasgow.
A year later, we have a glimpse of Rose performing an original song at the Celtic Connections titled “Glasgow”. Her children and mother are in the audience and Rose receives huge applause from the audience for her incredible performance.
Real-Life Parallels
While “Wild Rose” is a work of fiction, it does share similarities with real-life stories of aspiring musicians. The film’s themes, such as the importance of perseverance, the power of music, and the struggles of balancing personal life and career ambitions, are all inspired by the experiences of real people.
Take, for example, the story of Shania Twain, a Canadian country music icon who also started from humble beginnings and faced numerous obstacles in her pursuit of success. Like Rose-Lynn Harlan, Twain had to overcome personal challenges and sacrifices to achieve her dreams.
Final Thoughts
“Wild Rose” may not be based on a true story, but it certainly takes inspiration from the real world. The film’s depiction of the struggles faced by aspiring musicians and single parents is an authentic representation of many people’s lives.
Jessie Buckley’s performance as Rose-Lynn Harlan, combined with the powerful themes of the movie, makes “Wild Rose” a touching and inspiring film that resonates with audiences across the globe.
